Frenkie de Jong and Christian Eriksen playing against one another in 2019 (Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Manchester United’s hopes of signing Christian Eriksen could be boosted if they complete a move for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, with the Dane said to be ‘attracted’ by the prospect of playing alongside the Dutchman.
The Red Devils are finally closing in on a move for the Netherlands international, with widespread reports that a deal worth around £70million can be closed by Thursday.
Barcelona are keen to agree the deal before they close their accounts on June 31st and they can recoup the cash they paid for the Ajax star just three years ago.
United have been fully focused on signing De Jong, such is Erik ten Hag’s determination to sign the midfielder.
He feels that De Jong is so vital to how he wants to play at Old Trafford that it’s worth prioritising a deal for the midfielder and other deals will fall into place once he’s through the door.
De Jong is set to join in a £70m deal (Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images)
And the Times claim Ten Hag’s gamble could pay off in the form of Eriksen, who is said to be keen to play with De Jong.
The Dane is available on a free transfer at the end of the month when his contract expires at Brentford.
The Bees, like United, have offered him a contract but Eriksen is yet to decide whether to remain in north-west London or to move to Old Trafford.
Signing De Jong, though, would be a significant boost for United’s chances as Eriksen feels he is a player that is on the same wavelength as he is.
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United still plan to sign a forward and a defender in the window, with Ajax stars Antony and Lisandro Martinez top targets.
Jurrien Timber looks set to stay in the Dutch capital after initially being keen to join United.
The 20-year-old was spooked by comments from Louis van Gaal, where the Netherlands boss stated that any player that isn’t a regular with their club will not be selected in his 26-man squad for the World Cup in December.
Timber therefore feels it’s a gamble at this stage of his career to move, despite his relationship with Ten Hag.
MORE : Erik ten Hag ‘surprised’ by Manchester United’s transfer window as Christian Eriksen keeps stalling
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